Pei Lan

Eupatorium japonicum

Physical Characteristics

Eupatorium japonicum is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - S. China, Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Young leaves - cooked. Boiled and well seasoned[177]. Root - cooked. It is sometimes eaten for food and is considered beneficial to the circulation[218].

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antibacterial Antidandruff Antiviral Carminative Diaphoretic Diuretic Nervine Vermifuge Women's complaints The leaves and stems are anodyne, antibacterial, antiviral, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, nervine and vermifuge[176, 218]. They are taken internally in the treatment of indigestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, feverish colds etc[147, 176, 238]. In excess the plant causes irritation to the stomach[238]. The leaves and stems are harvested in the summer before the flower buds open, and are dried for later use[238]. The plant contains the essential oil thymol. In large doses this can cause various health problems such as headaches, tinnitus, vertigo, inhibition of respiration and the circulation[176]. Use with caution[176]. The seed is prescribed in China for the '36 diseases of women'[218]. The root is considered to be beneficial to the circulation and a restorative to women after parturition[218]. It is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238]. The herbage, soaked in oil, is applied to the hair as a treatment for dandruff[218].

Known Hazards

None known